OpenAI’s hardware ambitions have been no secret, but the company has long hinted that it isn’t making phones. but a new report says that’s no longer the case, and an iPhone competitor to OpenAI is now in the works.
Ming-Chi Kuo says OpenAI plans to launch its first phone in 2028
If you’ve followed the OpenAI hardware rumors, you’ll know that the company is working with former Apple design chief Jony Ive on a suite of AI-infused hardware devices.
The first product to launch is a new HomePod-type smart speaker with ChatGPIT and a built-in camera. Smart glasses and a smart lamp are also reportedly in development.
While previous reports have consistently stated that OpenAI is not working on the phone, it seems that is no longer the case.
Here’s analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, in a post on x: :
OpenAI is working with MediaTek and Qualcomm to develop smartphone processors, with Luxshare being the exclusive system co-design and manufacturing partner. Mass production is expected in 2028…specifications and suppliers are expected to be finalized by late 2026 or 1Q27.
Kuo also spoke about his belief that AI agents will shape the OpenAI smartphone, making it work and look very different from the iPhone.
This is probably no coincidence, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Posted the following on X yesterday: :
While OpenAI at one point apparently believed it could disrupt the iPhone with its first AI devices, perhaps it now sees smartphones as the center of AI use for many years to come.
This sounds a lot like the belief of Perplexity CEO Arvind Srinivas, who said last week that “the iPhone isn’t really being disrupted by AI at all.” Instead he argued that as AI improves, the iPhone becomes even more valuable to users.
What do you think about OpenAI building your phone? Let us know in the comments.
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